Sonali Sokal

• Author: Dr. Soumya Bhattacharya
• Genre: Novel
• Format: Hardcover
• ISBN: 9789354251771
• Pages: 500
• Weight: 632 grams
• Publisher: Ananda Publishers

Synopsis:
At the turn of the 20th century, Bengal and India are experiencing new waves of awakening. While Curzon, Fraser, and Risley secretly plan the Partition of Bengal, the region stirs with revolutionary energy—from Rabindranath Tagore’s idealistic Brahmacharyashram to the nationalist endeavors of Sister Nivedita, Okakura, Aurobindo, and Barindra.

After Swami Vivekananda’s passing, Sister Nivedita severs ties with the Ramakrishna Mission to dedicate herself to nationalist activism. Meanwhile, Brahmabandhav Upadhyay spreads the grandeur of Vedanta philosophy in England.

In the world of science, Jagadish Chandra Bose, Prafulla Chandra Roy, and Upendrakishore Ray revolutionize both pure and applied research, while Bose transitions from physics to botany. In Bombay, Gandhi struggles to establish himself but soon immerses in movements in South Africa.

The novel also highlights Sarala Ghosal, often regarded as Bengal’s “Joan of Arc,” deeply engaged in nationalist activities. Amidst personal tragedies, Rabindranath Tagore continues composing soul-stirring songs, iconic novels like Nouka Dubi, and profound essays like Swadeshi Samaj. Inspired by Japanese artists Taikan and Hishida, Abanindranath Tagore ushers in a new era of Indian painting.

Against this backdrop, the Russo-Japanese War ignites patriotic fervor across Asia. Observing history unfold from both near and afar is Premankur Atarthi, who is just stepping into youth and love for the first time.

‘Sonali Sokal’ is the sequel to Notun Alo and is part of Dr. Soumya Bhattacharya’s ambitious novel series on the Bengali Renaissance. This epic journey culminates with the death of Maharshi Debendranath Tagore, a pioneer of 19th-century Bengal.

About the Author:
Dr. Soumya Bhattacharya was born on December 23, 1965, in Kolkata. His father was Sachindramohan Bhattacharya, and his late mother was Leela Bhattacharya.

A brilliant student from Patha Bhavan, Kolkata, and Ramakrishna Mission, Narendrapur, he pursued MBBS from Kolkata Medical College, followed by MD in Medicine from National Medical College. He later earned his MRCP and FRCPath from England, along with CCST in Hematology.

After working in renowned international hospitals, he is now the Head of Hematology & Hemato-Oncology at Apollo Gleneagles Hospital, Kolkata.

Notable Works:

• Gaudgodhuli – A historical novel on the fall of Gaur in the 12th century, which became a bestseller.
• Chiro Kuashar Deshe – A fantasy satire on the unity of India and Bangladesh.
• Health Awareness Books:
  • Blood Cancer
  • Thalassemia Thaman
  • Dengue Theke Bachun (Stay Safe from Dengue)

Other Interests:

He enjoys listening to music, traveling, reading diverse topics, and practicing music. His recent album ‘Shraboner Dharar Moto’ features eight songs sung by him.